Ravens’ Harbaugh liking his new 1-2 punch in backfield

Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh loved what he saw from the two newest running backs at the top of his depth chart.

The duo of rookie Javorius Allen and Terrance West combined for 121 total yards and a touchdown on 23 carries in Monday night's win over Cleveland. Allen was making his first start in place of the injured Forsett and rushed for 55 yards on 12 carries to go with a 13-yard touchdown catch. West, making his Ravens debut against the team that drafted him a year ago, did most of his damage in the second half, rushing seven times for 37 yards.

“I think they both showed they’re capable of being top-notch NFL running backs,” head coach John Harbaugh said via the team's official site. “I thought they both did a good job.”

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Granted, the Browns have the worst run defense in the league, but the Ravens were also without three starters on the offensive line.

West, who was released by the Titans earlier this year after fumbling in his first two games, was born in Baltimore and attended nearby Towson University. He is friends with Ray Rice, and even spoke to the former Raven about wearing his No. 27. The former third-round pick is hoping to stick with his hometown team.

“It’s a dream come true,” West said. “I tried to keep my composure and play for my team. I’m a Raven now, so I didn’t want to make it about me. I went out there and just played hard.”

Even without Justin Forsett, the Ravens all of a sudden appear to have solid young depth in their backfield, especially when a healthy Lorenzo Taliaferro is included. Unfortunately, the second-year back is on injured reserve for the second straight season with a foot injury.